In the afternoon they were starting out for a walk together about the grounds. Annis, who was a little in advance of Elsie, called back to her from the veranda. “The sun has gone under a cloud; do you think there’s any danger of rain before we get back?”
“I guess not,” Elsie answered.
Her papa’s study-door was ajar and she quite near it as she spoke.
“Elsie!” came in grave, reproving tones from within.
“Sir!” and she hastened to him.
He was writing and for a moment seemed oblivious of her presence.
“I am here, papa,” she said softly as he paused to dip his pen in the ink.
“I am not pleased with you,” he remarked, without looking at her.
“O papa! why?” The sweet voice was tremulous with pain and surprise.
“I cannot be pleased with you when you are not careful to obey me.”